Kiev

Those concerned about traveling to Kiev today need only look at this Ukrainian capital’s long history and take solace in its resilience. There was the Mongol invasion, the rise of the Soviet Empire, WWII, the fall of the Soviet Empire, the Orange Revolution, and most recently the run-in with Russia. And yet each time this beautiful city of grand cathedrals and monasteries, towering churches and museums, and a hip world of bars and clubs just keeps on beguiling visitors with its charms. No wonder the hotel Kiev scene persists, it is as indomitable as the city itself.

Most surprising is how many things there are to do here. One can just as easily visit the city beaches of Hydropark as take in the mummified monks of the Lavra. And Kiev hotels are always filled with history buffs ogling Kiev’s Soviet-era architecture and monuments.